Kefir during pregnancy: benefits and harms

When formulating the diet of a pregnant woman, it is important to analyze the valuable properties of each product. Everyone knows that dairy products are very useful for the digestive system and are a source of important substances such as calcium. In addition, fresh kefir has a slight sourness, which is to the taste of many expectant mothers.

Despite the low caloric content of such a fermented milk drink and safety, you need to know how to properly and in what quantity to consume kefir during pregnancy. If you abuse such a product, as well as drinking it in the presence of a lactose allergy, you may develop intolerance and digestion disorders, which will adversely affect the condition of the woman herself and her unborn child.

Pregnant women are allowed to drink a small amount of kefir every day. If you exceed the allowable dosage of such a drink, its laxative effect can lead to discomfort in the gastrointestinal tract, disrupt stools.

As already mentioned, all products derived from milk are rich in calcium, which is necessary for the formation of the baby's bone system and strengthening the musculoskeletal system of the woman.

If we talk about whole fat milk, it can even harm the body of the future mother, while kefir is recommended to include in the daily diet. In addition to a pleasant taste and thick consistency, we can also say about the minerals and vitamins that are necessary for the proper development of the fetus. Such products should be consumed with dysbacteriosis, including vaginal dysbacteriosis, weakened immunity, chronic fatigue.

In the production of kefir use special lactic fungi, microorganisms and yeast. They are used to ferment milk. This activates kefir proteins, which are better digested by the digestive tract than milk proteins. Such substances have a beneficial effect on the intestinal microflora, promote the formation of healthy bacteria that protect women from disease, strengthen the body's immunity and protect it from the absorption of toxins.

Chemical composition and varieties of kefir

Like most scientific discoveries, the fermented milk drink was created by accident. A special fungus was introduced into the milk, which was later named kefir. Up until the 19th century the recipe for such a miracle drink was kept secret and passed on by inheritance. Nowadays every pregnant woman can appreciate the benefits of kefir by studying the unique composition of this delicacy.

The dairy product under study is enriched with B-group vitamins, tocopherol, ascorbic acid, niacin, retinol, etc. In addition, lactic acid bacteria, namely lactobacilli, saturated and unsaturated fats were found here. The mineral composition is represented by calcium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, zinc, iron, sodium. Kefir also contains starch, proteins, sugars, dietary fiber, phytosterols, etc.

The ratio of most of the components varies depending on the type of kefir. So currently nonfat kefir is produced with a fat content of 0-1%, while fat kefir is characterized by more than 3% fat content. There is also classical kefir, which has an average fat content of 2.5%, and creamy kefir with a fat content of 6% and more.

The last two varieties are most often used in cooking for baked goods, gravy or sauces. As for the pregnancy period, in this case it is recommended to pay attention to classic kefir or skimmed kefir, which is perfectly suitable for drinking. Such a drink is quickly absorbed and well tolerated by the body.

Some producers of this sour milk products add to their products various flavor components and fruit fillers, which are most often of synthetic origin. Doctors advise against getting carried away with such drinks. If it is still hard to drink plain kefir, you can add natural homemade jam or jam, or mix it with fruit whipped in a blender.

Can I drink kefir during pregnancy?

The benefit of such a product for the body of a pregnant girl is quite high, because it allows you to eliminate excess fluid, which contributes to the appearance of edema. In addition, this drink prevents the development of constipation and reduces the load on the kidneys. In addition, kefir while waiting for the baby ensures the proper formation of the fetus in the womb of a woman, because the vitamins and mineral compounds in its composition are very useful for the unborn child.

Along with this drink should not be taken in unlimited quantities, because the laxative properties of such a product can harm the body of the future mother by leading to diarrhea.

In the first trimester

In the first months of pregnancy, a woman faces toxicosis. In such a case, kefir represents the main food of this difficult period. In the first weeks, every woman likes to eat something sour. Some to satisfy their taste buds helps lemon, some apples, but most come to the aid of kefir.

It is able to normalize the intestinal microflora, as well as to eliminate the causes of ill health of women. In early pregnancy, the baby's skeleton is being laid and formed. Such fermented milk products can quickly make up for the lack of calcium. With the beginning of gestation in the female body is hormonal restructuring, there are violations in the gastrointestinal tract. Kefir can help with this.

In the second trimester

Another problem that many pregnant women face is heartburn. Such an unpleasant condition develops during changes in the hormonal background. This provokes an increase in the acidity of gastric juice. That is, the cause of heartburn is a disorder in the functioning of the digestive system. Therefore, it can be treated with kefir. To get rid of burning with a glass of such a drink, you should follow some conditions. First of all, you need to remember that the product is consumed only on an empty stomach. Kefir must necessarily be fresh. Positive results will be observed only if there are no serious gastrointestinal diseases, such as ulcers and gastritis.

Sometimes it happens that for a few days of taking fermented milk drink, the ailment disappears, but after a while it returns. This is due to the individual characteristics of the body. In that case, you will need to find another way to combat heartburn.

In the third trimester

Valuable components included in kefir contribute to the neutralization of toxic elements. In addition, these useful substances inhibit the development of pathogenic microflora, prevent putrefactive processes in the digestive system, have a beneficial effect on the course of toxicosis.

Such a low-calorie product is useful for pregnant women who are prone to being overweight, as well as suffering from gestational diabetes. The fermented milk drink has no effect on blood glucose levels and has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system.

It is known that in the last months of pregnancy, women often experience constipation. This is due to the fact that as the baby grows, it puts pressure on the digestive tract, which prevents the normal flow of feces. Yes, the baby is growing in time and developing properly, which, of course, pleases the future mother, but the enlarged uterus presses on the intestines, which causes problems with emptying it. To go to the bathroom during this period were not torture, it is recommended to drink fresh kefir daily in the morning.

How to consume kefir correctly

First of all, you need to remember that you should drink only fresh product. It is important to consider that the shelf life of kefir is no more than seven days in closed form. Recently, in stores you can find a sour-milk product with a long shelf life - about one month. It is not recommended to buy such a product, as it contains a large number of thickeners and various preservatives.

Proper consumption of kefir involves compliance with acceptable norms. Nutritionists advise pregnant women to drink such drinks every day, but their volume should not exceed 600 ml. This is the amount of all fermented milk products for one day.

You should not drink kefir immediately from the fridge, as it can cause a cold. It is necessary to warm the drink to room temperature and drink in small sips.

Gastroenterologists advise to consume the product shortly before going to bed. Overnight it will be digested and stimulate intestinal motility. This will lead to the fact that in the morning, the expectant mother will have a good appetite and normal digestion will be restored. If there are chronic constipation or dysbacteriosis, it is better to drink the lactic acid drink in the morning on an empty stomach. This is necessary in order to start the activity of the digestive organs.

How much you can drink per day

Doctors recommend drinking a glass of kefir every day, but the drink must be fresh and of good quality, preferably made at home from pasteurized milk. Such products can be used as a daily snack before the main meal. In addition, it perfectly quenches the feeling of hunger, thirst, protecting against overeating fatty and high-calorie foods. You can drink up to three glasses of kefir a day.

Pregnant women can arrange a kefir cleanse day. This can be done once a month. In addition to the main fermented milk drink, you can add to your diet easily digestible and healthy foods such as boiled buckwheat, fresh vegetables, apples, fish of low-fat varieties, unsweetened berries. This kind of unloading gives the body the opportunity to rest and recover. After such a procedure you feel lightness and there is a burst of energy. For such a day of unloading you will need an average of 1-1.5 liters of product.

Can kefir for the night and on an empty stomach

The benefit of such a treat for a person depends on the time of the day. To feel the positive effects of kefir, it is important to consider some features of its action in the morning and in the evening.

The use of such products before going to bed is useful because it allows you to go to sleep with a full stomach. Kefir is a low-calorie product that suppresses the feeling of hunger, while there is no excess calories. From this we can conclude that you can drink it in the evening, using when dieting, all without experiencing any discomfort. Another advantage of drinking the product at night is the fact that one glass of the drink contains half of the daily requirement of the body in calcium. This mineral is best absorbed at night.

The benefit of kefir drunk in the morning on an empty stomach is that it helps to activate the gastrointestinal tract. In this case, beneficial bacteria get into the intestines, and the food eaten during the day is better digested, there is no feeling of heaviness and bloating.

In addition, the product provides the body with quality proteins and replenishes energy reserves. Drinking kefir in the morning makes it easier to wake up, feeling invigorated and energized.

The benefits of kefir during pregnancy

1. Most of all kefir is valued due to the fact that its composition has been found to contain amino acids. And it is a source of essential amino acids, that is, those that are not produced in the human body and can only come with food. These substances are responsible for the most important processes of life, namely, to strengthen the immune system, prevent the entry into the body of pathogenic bacteria.
2. In addition, the valuable components of kefir slow down the processes of natural aging, take part in the synthesis of building material for muscles, bones and tendons of the child, have a positive effect on brain activity, improving memory and concentration, reduce the likelihood of neurosis and depression.
3. The substances that make up this sour milk product contribute to improving mood, healing and regeneration of tissues, facilitate the course of the postpartum period.
4. With the help of such a product you can control weight gain.
5. Essential amino acids are involved in the production of growth hormones, which are necessary for the normal development and formation of the baby.
6. Regular consumption of kefir helps to protect the kidneys and liver of the expectant mother from the high load as the uterus increases. The product regulates blood pressure, preventing the development of hypertension. It also helps to reduce cholesterol levels.
7. As mentioned above, kefir is a source of calcium. Since this fermented milk drink is 30% faster absorbed than milk, the building material for the bone and muscle system gets to its so-called destination faster. A high dose of this mineral is a prevention of fractures in pregnant women, as well as birth injuries in the child. The product is also valued for its ability to protect the dental enamel of the pregnant girl from destruction, which is very often encountered while waiting for the baby.
8. Kefir is distinguished by the presence of lactose. This lactic sugar is necessary for the body to suppress the development of various microbes and bacteria.
9. This lactic acid product normalizes digestion. The drink is popular because of its ability to stimulate intestinal peristalsis. This delicacy reduces toxemia and nausea, improves stomach and intestinal motility, increases appetite, eliminates heartburn and bloating. As a consequence, kefir has a mild laxative effect. In addition, it prevents chronic constipation and hemorrhoids.
10. Lactobacillus in the drink inhabits the woman's body and prevents the development of pathogenic microflora.
11. One glass of kefir is enough to quickly satisfy hunger. Due to the presence of natural sugars and milk fats, the product provides the body with energy without consequences in the form of excess weight.
12. The enriched composition allows you to cleanse the body. Vegetable fiber and unsaturated fats in the composition of lactic acid products contribute to the removal of toxins, poisons, metabolites and bad cholesterol from the body.
13. Kefir contains a sufficient amount of iron and B vitamins to protect women from developing iron deficiency anemia.

Does kefir help with heartburn during pregnancy?

Rather pleasant-tasting drink derived from milk provides an opportunity not only to provide the body of a pregnant woman with valuable elements and prevent an increase in body weight, but also has effectiveness with various ailments. Especially useful is kefir for those girls who are tormented by heartburn. Most often, this unpleasant phenomenon develops in the second half of the gestation period, when the already quite large baby begins to press on the internal organs.

To cope with heartburn, it is recommended to drink sour milk drink on an empty stomach. It is also important to buy a fresh product of high quality.

Kefir for constipation during pregnancy

The high concentration of beneficial bacteria in quality kefir makes it ideal for fighting constipation. If you use it regularly, you can easily eliminate problems with bowel emptying, because its benefit is that it regulates the activity of this organ and improves its peristalsis.

To normalize stools, you should drink a glass of lactic acid drink in the morning on an empty stomach. For best results, repeat this procedure can be repeated before going to bed. To enhance the laxative effect of the composition, you should add to it a teaspoon of vegetable oil. By the way, it can sometimes be drunk separately from kefir. This, too, will achieve the desired result.

To cope with already existing constipation, you need to drink 5-6 glasses of this drink during the day at intervals of several hours. Such a product will have the desired effect, as a result of which there will be a gentle cleansing of the intestines.

Kefir application in cosmetology

This milk-based product is also valued because it is actively used in home cosmetology in self-care recipes. The benefits of such a composition for the facial skin are widely known. On the basis of kefir you can prepare various masks, which can improve not only the condition of the skin, but also to return health to the hair.

For the skin, kefir is useful in that it is able to cleanse, whiten, tighten and rejuvenate the dermis. It can be combined with various other products used in cosmetology, so it is used along with fruits and vegetables, some spices and herbs, as well as a bee product - honey. A good effect is achieved without adding other ingredients.

So, for example, to tone the skin of the face it is necessary to carry out the following manipulations. To begin with you should wash thoroughly, and then for a few minutes steamed face over a decoction of herbs. Then apply fresh kefir on the skin. Keep such a mask as long as possible - up to 5-6 hours after the mass hardens. After the procedure it is enough to simply rinse off the rest with water.

Honey-kefir compositions have a rejuvenating and tightening effect. The addition of egg yolk in kefir helps to moisturize and soften the skin.

Hair masks with the addition of such a lactic acid component can nourish the scalp and moisturize it, eliminating dandruff and itching. It also helps to prevent hair loss and regulate greasiness.

For example, for oily or too dry hair, you can use the following recipe. To prepare the healing composition, you need to combine a glass of kefir with the juice of one lemon. The resulting mixture should be applied to the hair along its entire length. After that, wrap your head with a shower cap and a towel. After 60 minutes, wash the mask with natural shampoo. It is important to remember that for dry strands you should choose a product with a fat content of 3.2%, and for the fat one-percent kefir is suitable.

Can kefir harm a future mother?

Despite the benefits and good digestibility, kefir still has some contraindications for use during pregnancy. First of all, you should highlight lactose allergy, gastrointestinal pathology, compliance with a therapeutic diet. With food poisoning, severe kidney disease and chronic diarrhea, you should also not eat such a product.

How to choose and store kefir

Store fermented milk drink can differ greatly in quality. To buy natural and healthy products and to protect yourself, you need to pay attention to some points when buying. So, as part of the real kefir in the obligatory presence of kefir fungal starter. As for dyes, flavorings, thickeners, and other preservatives, a good product should not have them.

A good drink does not keep for long. It is considered useful for seven days from the moment of production, no more than that.

Such products are stored only in the refrigerator. Also remember that open kefir loses its freshness and useful properties after two days.

It is impossible to consume a sour beverage, otherwise it can harm your health.

How to make natural kefir at home

Despite the fact that kefir today can be found in every store, and in a large range, still many people prefer to prepare it with their own hands at home. The advantage of such a drink for the body is that you can be sure of the naturalness, freshness and high quality product.

You need only milk and some fresh, ready-made kefir. Pour a liter of milk into a saucepan and put it on the stove. After boiling, take it off the fire and cool it to about 40 degrees. After that, add 2 tablespoons of kefir to the solution. Now stir the mixture well.

Then pour the drink into glass bottles, cover and send in a warm place for 10-12 hours. This homemade product is not inferior to store-bought kefir. Moreover, the useful properties of such a treat will be much more.